In a gaming generation obsessed with futuristic shooters, it was a somewhat brave and unexpected move for EA to move the focus of its Battlefield series back to historical warfare. But Battlefield 1, set amidst the trenches of the First World War , is a fantastic, harrowing first person shooter spectacle.

Its single player campaign sets the mood superbly. Though short at a little over four hours long, its episodic take on the conflict is as respectful as the medium allows for, with surprisingly creative storytelling methods used. With stunning visuals throughout, it’s a perfect primer for the weapons and vehicles of the meaty multiplayer mode.

The campaign is short but sweet

And what a multiplayer offering this is. The Battlefield series has always dealt in battles on a grand scale, pitting two large teams against each other. But Battlefield 1 truly does elevate the series. Never before has a game made you feel more like you’re in a dynamic battle in this way.

From fully destructible environments to superbly tuned maps and gameplay modes, the orchestrated chaos of early 20th century warfare is fully captured. Whether manning a bi-plane during a dogfight or accompanying a Mark IV tank with a horseback cavalry charge, you’ll constantly need to consider your surroundings and adjust your tactics as the tide of battle turns.

With three big shooters launching in as many weeks (Titanfall 2 and Call of Duty: Infinite Warfare will each land by the first week of November), Battlefield 1, by dialling the clock back on its theatre of war, has become the one to beat.